Drug charges dropped against 14, dozens more in jeopardy over California FBI agent

LOS ANGELES – Drug charges against 14 people have been dropped and cases against dozens more defendants in California are in jeopardy following the arrest of a former FBI agent who prosecutors say stole more than $100,000 seized during drug investigations.

Authorities say active cases against at least 61 defendants are currently under the microscope because of the agent, Scott Bowman.

The 44-year-old is accused of using stolen drug money to buy cars, plastic surgery for his wife and a trip with his girlfriend to Las Vegas. Bowman pleaded not guilty Thursday to charges including obstruction of justice, money laundering, falsifying records and witness tampering. He was fired from the FBI in March.

One case Bowman investigated — charging 14 people with a slew of drug and gun counts — was dismissed in December.